The free neutron decays into a proton, electron and antineutrino in about 15 minutes. Inside some nuclei, the neutron can decay faster because more energy is released. Inside other nuclei (that have too many protons for stability), a proton can decay into a neutron, positron, and neutrino, with the nucleus providing the necessary energy.ppyadof said:Is it possible to cause a neutron to become an electron? I know that a free neutron decays into a proton and an electron, but is it possible to cause this change to occur, so that it can happen at a faster rate? Also, is it possible to change a proton into and electron (obviously something else must be made along with the electron to conserve charge, lepton number etc)?
Thank you
A proton is a positively charged subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom. A neutron is a neutral subatomic particle also found in the nucleus. An electron is a negatively charged particle that orbits the nucleus.
Protons and neutrons are attracted to each other through the strong nuclear force, which keeps them bound together in the nucleus. Electrons are attracted to protons through the electromagnetic force, which keeps them in orbit around the nucleus.
No, protons and neutrons cannot change into electrons. Protons and neutrons are made up of smaller particles called quarks, while electrons are fundamental particles that cannot be broken down into smaller components.
Protons determine the atomic number and identity of an element, while electrons determine the chemical and physical properties of an atom. The number and arrangement of electrons in an atom determine its reactivity and ability to bond with other atoms.
Protons and electrons are used in a variety of practical applications, including nuclear energy, medical treatments (such as radiation therapy), and electricity generation. Protons are also used in particle accelerators to study the fundamental building blocks of matter.